Laura Johnson (died 2002) was a New York social figure and philanthropist who is best known for her flamboyant sense of style. Johnson became connected to the fashion world though her marriage to longtime Saks Fifth Avenue executive Francis Raymond Johnson (1895-1965) and remained active in the New York social scene until the end of the twentieth century.

One of eleven children, Johnson was born Laura Safir near Bucharest, Romania, sometime in the early twentieth century. (The exact year of her birth is unknown.) She received her primary education in Romania before studying law and philosophy at the Sorbonne in Paris, from which she professed to have earned multiple degrees that she never used professionally. After relocating to New York City in 1953, Johnson took English courses at Hunter College and met her husband three years later. The couple was married in 1958.

Mr. and Mrs. Johnson became prominent members of New York society and were often photographed at nightclubs, charity parties, and other events. Mrs. Johnson was regularly featured in the social pages of popular newspapers and became widely known for her daring clothing choices. Her bold style also served as publicity for her husband’s store. The press referred to her as a “fashion individualist” and “the most flamboyant woman in Manhattan.” Johnson claimed that she went out every night and had amassed a collection of sixty-eight couture ball gowns by 1973. She favored a wide range of American and European designers including Christian Dior, Philip Hulitar, Sophie of Saks, James Galanos, Emilio Pucci, and Ben Zuckerman. She was also known for her collection of luxurious furs, and sometimes commissioned matching pieces for her French poodle, Joie.

In addition to organizing numerous charity balls and other fund raising events, Johnson was known as a generous and sometimes private contributor to many organizations and institutions, including the Literacy Partners, New York Police Department, the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and The New School. Johnson also hosted events at her home and preferred cooking for large groups herself.

In 1963, Johnson was appointed fashion counselor for the luxury leather brand Samuel Robert, although it is unknown how long this business relationship lasted. Some newspapers reported that she was also a designer and public relations assistant for the brand.

Johnson continued to travel and attend social functions until the end of the century. She died in 2002 and was believed to have been in her late 80s at the time.

Bibliography:

“F. Raymond. Johnson, 70, Dies; Vice President of Revlon, Inc.” New York Times, August 14, 1965.

Klemesrud, Judy. “She L-O-V-E-S Fashion.” New York Times, August 26, 1973.

Nemy, Enid. “Laura Johnson, Exuberant Social Figure and Quiet Philanthropist, Dies.” New York Times, May 19, 2002.

Sheppard, Eugenia. “Bombshells from Paris.” New York Herald Tribune, November 1, 1963.